Emily Mortimer's 'Dennis' Assembles Stellar British Cast: Jim Broadbent, Kelly Macdonald, Jamie Demetriou Join A24 Romance

Emily Mortimer is assembling an absolute powerhouse of British talent for her directorial debut, Dennis. According to the exclusive details captured in Screenshot (550).png, the A24 and Fruit Tree-backed romance has just added three critically acclaimed names to its already tantalizing cast: Jim Broadbent, Kelly Macdonald, and Jamie Demetriou.

The trio joins previously announced leads Alison Oliver—currently captivating audiences in Wuthering Heights—and Oscar-nominated Anora breakout Yura Borisov. With this lineup, Dennis is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated independent films of the year.

A Love Story Set in 1990s Moscow

Dennis follows a British student, played by Oliver, and a Russian poet, portrayed by Borisov, as they fall head over heels in love against the chaotic, post-Soviet backdrop of 1990s Moscow. The era provides a rich, textured setting for a sweeping romance—one that blends political upheaval with intimate human connection.

Mortimer, a BAFTA-nominated writer, director, and actress, is pulling double duty as both writer and director. Her previous work behind the camera includes writing and directing the BBC/Amazon limited series The Pursuit of Love and creating the HBO series Doll and Em, where she also costarred alongside Dolly Wells. She also co-wrote Noah Baumbach's Jay Kelly.

The New Additions: A Trio of British Icons

Each new cast member brings a distinct flavor to the project. Here's a closer look at what they bring to the table:

• Jim Broadbent – The Oscar-winning veteran (Iris) and beloved character actor, known for everything from Bridget Jones to Harry Potter, recently starred in Jay Kelly alongside Mortimer. His presence adds gravitas and texture to any scene.
• Kelly Macdonald – The Scottish actress, famous for her roles in No Country for Old Men, Boardwalk Empire, and Trainspotting, has a knack for playing complex, emotionally resonant characters. Her recent work includes the crime series Dept. Q.
• Jamie Demetriou – The comedian and actor, creator of the BAFTA-winning series Stath Lets Flats, brings his sharp wit and offbeat charm. He recently appeared in The Moment and is known for elevating every project with his unique energy.

Behind the Scenes: A24 and Fruit Tree Powerhouse

Dennis marks another chapter in the ongoing collaboration between A24 and Emma Stone and Dave McCary's Fruit Tree production company. The two have already delivered hits like Problemista, I Saw the TV Glow, and the series The Curse. Up next from the partnership is Jesse Eisenberg's untitled comedy, starring Julianne Moore, Paul Giamatti, and Halle Bailey.

Producing alongside Mortimer are Stone, McCary, and Ali Herting for Fruit Tree, plus Alessandro Nivola and Lizzie Nastro Adler for King Bee Productions. The executive producer roster is equally impressive: Joshua Horsfield for Intake, Viktória Petrányi for Proton Cinema, and Jacob Epstein for Lighthouse. A24 will finance the film and handle worldwide release.

What This Means for the Cast

For Broadbent, Macdonald, and Demetriou, Dennis is a chance to work with a first-time director who understands actors intimately. Mortimer has spent decades in front of the camera, starring in films like Shutter Island, The Newsroom, and Mary Poppins Returns. Her transition to directing has been highly anticipated, and this project gives her the perfect canvas to explore love, loss, and cultural collision.

Broadbent is represented by CAA and Independent Talent Group; Macdonald by the same agencies; Demetriou by CAA and United Agents. The fact that all three chose to sign on speaks volumes about the project's appeal.

Setting the Scene: 1990s Moscow

The film's setting is crucial. The 1990s in Moscow were a time of immense change—the fall of the Soviet Union, the rise of oligarchs, and a newfound but chaotic freedom. Against this backdrop, a British student and a Russian poet would have faced not just cultural differences, but also economic instability and shifting social norms. It's a rich historical moment that promises both drama and romance.

With Mortimer's keen eye for character and period detail, and a cast this strong, Dennis is poised to be a standout in the indie landscape. The combination of A24's prestige, Fruit Tree's creative track record, and a script rooted in real historical texture makes this a must-watch production.

As production gears up, all eyes are on Mortimer's debut. If the team behind the camera and the talent in front of it are any indication, Dennis will be a love story for the ages—one that might just steal our hearts.

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